Residents are supported through the recreational and activity program to respond to, and interact with, their environment. This is done through the presentation of a variety of sights, sounds, smells, tastes and manipulative objects.

The outcome of this innovative program results in the reduced use of psychotropic medications simultaneously with the enhanced activity programs which were initiated in October 2008. Utilization of antipsychotics, hypnotics/sedatives and antidepressants were all reduced compared with baseline. Garden Crest data is being compared to state and national norms.

Some of the Recreation Therapy Programs include:

• Thematic activity programs on a monthly basis that highlight a special day or monthly overall themes.